Mosaics and Bedouin decorations adorn the entrance. Last week, the Beit Al-Sha'ar Bedouin Heritage Museum opened its doors in Rahat, the largest Bedouin city in Israel. This new and authentic museum balances modernity and tradition, showcasing Israeli Bedouin culture. Ancient objects coexist with audiovisual installations in a brand-new building. A large loom, traditional clothing, as well as explanatory photos and videos immerse the public in the Bedouin world and its evolution over the ages. The inauguration was attended by 150 people from all over Israel and abroad, including Rahat's mayor, Talal Al-Kiranawi, regional authority leaders, and Lior Kalfa, director of the Economic and Social Development Department of the Bedouin society.
"This museum is the first of its kind in the Bedouin society of the Negev. It serves as a bridge between the past and the future, and between different communities in Israel, while revealing the material and spiritual culture and the Bedouin man's relationship with the desert. It is a modern and welcoming museum that symbolizes Bedouin hospitality," declares Mohamed Alamour, CEO of Rahat Economic Company.
In a very original way, visitors can discover numerous videos while riding a horse or a camel. The museum's diverse and varied content provides a comprehensive overview to understand and learn about the customs of the Bedouin community, both past and present. The opening exhibition features drawings by children from unrecognized villages in the Negev and was organized by the Forum for Coexistence.
"We were very honored by the presence of those who came to the inauguration. Some traveled from the North, the South, as well as from the United States and Poland. We received fantastic feedback; visitors from central Israel, in particular, were impressed by the quality of the exhibition and praised us. This means a lot to us, and we thank them," said Mohamed.
It took seven years to establish this museum, which offers an in-depth understanding of the history of the Bedouins in the region, through the changes experienced by the latest generations, the challenges they face, and their ongoing struggle to maintain their unique culture alongside innovation and progress. This cultural monument connects Bedouin youth to their rich heritage and invites the public to discover Bedouin charm, while making information accessible in three languages: Arabic, Hebrew, and English.
The center aligns with the city’s economic development vision from 2014, as part of implementing government resolutions 922 and 2397, and budgets allocated through the Ministry of the Interior. It is located at the heart of cultural activities in Rahat, near the Cultural Palace, inaugurated in 2022, the youth center, and the new library.
"We target two distinct audiences: first, the Bedouin youth, so they can absorb the traditions of their parents and ancestors to perpetuate them. Additionally, we want to introduce our culture to the rest of the citizens of the country and also to tourists. I believe it is essential to develop the cultural sector in the Negev. This is just the beginning, and I hope we have paved the way for similar museums to be established in the region. I invite all the residents of Israel to visit us," Mohamed concluded.
Caroline Haïat
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